Edson Barboza to Keep Streak Alive at UFC 134?

The young 25-year-old Edson Barboza burst into the UFC in impressive fashion, showcasing his impressive striking and ground work in his first fight against Mike Lullo at UFC 123. The Armory product followed that performance up with a Fight of the Night award-winning fight against WEC veteran Anthony Njokuani at UFC 128.

On Saturday, the young prospect will look to keep his 8 fight win streak going as he takes on England’s Ross Pearson at UFC 134 in his home country of Brazil. Despite being from Brazil, Barboza has never had a professional fight in the country, making his pro debut in Tampa, Florida. Prior to stepping into MMA competition, Barboza competed as a Muay Thai fighter, earning 25 victories in 28 fights.

Aside from his Muay Thai, Barboza has a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to fall back on, but its the striking that has catapulted him to victory in his young career. Starting his pro career in 2009, Barboza rattled off five straight fights before winning the Ring of Combat Lightweight Title in 2010 just before signing with the UFC.

Having only been to decision once in eight fights, Barboza has caught fans eyes due to his ability to finish fights, as well as gaining some attention for his spinning back hook kick that he used at the end of the 3rd round in his fight against Njokuani.

Barboza will step up to take on former Ultimate Fighter contestant, Ross Pearson. While Barboza will most certainly have the striking advantage, Pearson has shown to have skills outside of his striking and could test the young fighter more than previous opponents.

However the fight plays out, both fighters have shown to have exciting fights during their careers and on Saturday, it should be no different.